Here are a few notes from getting watch the first quarter-or-so of Texas' fourth practice of the spring Thursday:
- As everyone has undoubtedly heard, the Undertaker (ex professional wrestler) was on hand to address the team to start practice. The media was not allowed close enough to hear what was said, but rest assured the Texas Athletics Department will likely get footage of the speech up sooner than later.
- Like Tuesday, it was a full-pads practice.
- Practice started out with the "circle drill" again, which is what the new coaches call what the old coaches called "Bull in the ring." The Circle drill, bull in the ring, Oklahoma drill - whatever you call it - is usually something done mainly in camp and never in-season as it's a tone-setting competition drill as opposed to a game-plan one. I've noticed during the first two practices that when the circle drill period starts that the DJ plays "Bodies" by Drowning Pool. It's pretty lit.
- Kent Perkins was in attendance at practice as was D'Onta Foreman. As for recruits, I was able to identify one OL recruit on hand as 2018 OL Jeffrey Rose from Cy Ranch in Houston. Big kid with a nice frame and big paws. Based on his HUDL, he's the kind of prospect who comes in looking more like an oversized TE but that's what Connor Williams was, too ... HERE IS A LINK TO HIS HUDL
http://www.hudl.com/profile/5264569/jeffrey-rose
- On a sidenote about D'Onta Foreman, I asked some people around practice who've been around his pro day workouts how he's looking. He's been in Austin for the last week or so working out here and getting ready for pro day. The fifth metatarsal Jones fracture discovered at the combine that unexpectedly kept him out of action has proven to be absolutely no big deal per the source. The person said he's going to blow everyone away with his 40 time next week. I asked what he was running and the person wouldn't answer, but he said that it would be "faster than (Leonard) Fournette." Fournette, as most know, ran a 4.51 in Indy. Of course, we need to remember that pro day 40 hand-times run faster than combine electronic-times but the word around the Foreman camp seems to be a confident one about a sub-4.5 40 which may be surprising to some .... but not me.
- RT Brandon Hodges was not at practice on Tuesday, but media relations didn't seem to think it was any kind of injury, we'll keep an eye on it.
- As a result, Tristan Nickelson worked a good bit with the first group at RT; more importantly to many on the board, it also meant some first-team RT reps in position drills for Denzel Okafor for the first time.
- Speaking of injuries, Jason Hall looks to be coming along well. The brace he's worn for the first three practices is off and he's out there in pads. Once practice starts, he goes to rehab training, but the rehab he is doing is intense enough to think that maybe the issue is coming along well. He was basically tossing around a one-man sled dummy today so his hamstring is not in terrible shape.
- Joining Hall in the pit was Kirk Johnson, who, unfortunately, is still less than 100 percent at least. It might be good for him to just shut things down until fall camp and start out of the gate with refreshed legs.
- Speaking of RBs, Chris Warren showed some nice hands out of the backfield during some receiving drills, but the player who caught my eye as a snatcher of the football out of the backfield was Toneil Carter. He's a hands-catcher who frames the ball well, sees it in and puts his body in great position to burst upfield for YAC on consistent basis.
- Catch of the day came from Collin Johnson on a beautiful over-the-shoulder fade from Josh Covey. Covey in his own right is a much better QB than Texas fans have had recently as an emergency option. I'd certainly rather a guy like Covey have to get me out of a game and on to next week if need be than Trey Holtz or maybe even Case McCoy. (Dunlap)
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Texas defensive coordinator Todd Orlando spoke to the media after Thursday’s practice and appeared cautiously optimistic about his unit a few weeks into spring practice.
Here are the highlights from Orlando’s media availability:
- When asked for his observations since the pads have come on, Orlando said, “It’s early. I know Tom (Herman) talked about this thing, too. We have to get more physical, and we’re working on it every day. We understand what we need to do. I think that’s been a big point of emphasis. Kids are working, trying to work through. It’s different for them. There’s a lot of contact. The one thing I’ve been impressed with is they’re trying to push through it, where a lot of times you get a new staff in and there might be some defiance, and some people are trying to analyze things. They’re not doing that at all. They’re trying. They’re giving us everything they got. They just got to get accustomed to the way that we train.”
- Orlando said the decision to move Breckyn Hager inside was based on the evaluation of last year’s film and winter conditioning: “Breckyn brings a certain kind of physicality in there, and I’d like for that middle linebacker position to be that. Malik (Jefferson) has some tools to do some unique things at that position.”
- The reason why Erick Fowler has played the inside linebacker position is because Orlando views him as a thumper. Orlando wants guys who can hit at that position, and Fowler is the guy who fits that description. Overall, Orlando described Fowler as a work in progress, but seems to like his physical play.
- Here is an interesting observation about Hager and Fowler from Orlando: “The contact part is what I’m looking for. That’s it. You have to have somebody in there who wants to run it in. At the end of the day, when I look at him (Hager), I look at Erick, and I look at those guys, I say to myself, ‘Out of our group, who are those people?’ We’re not going to go into the season with a soft middle linebacker. It’s just not going to happen. Whoever ends up being the toughest kid, the kid that is going to be the most physical play in and play out, he’s going to line up there and eventually play middle. That position should be the quarterback of the defense. He should be the toughest guy. Everybody should respect him. He should go extremely hard all the time and be vocal. That’s the prereq (prerequisite) you look for when you’re trying to fill that spot.”
- By the way, the quarterback of Orlando’s defense is a combination of the middle linebacker and field-side safety.
- Orlando has been rotating different players at starting cornerbacks because he is still evaluating the guys he has: “To me, it’s a way to keep those guys on their toes, and to make sure that technically and fundamentally they’re doing things the right way, and we’re decently deep there, so you’re able to do that part of it. You’re going to see some different people in there. It’s not going to be, 'Malik Jefferson is not playing well, Malik’s going to stay in there.’ No, Malik is going to be on the bench, and we’re going to put somebody in there specifically who for that day is going to play. It’s creating competition and stressing it every day (when) you go out on that field. Ourselves included as coaches. You’re being evaluated every day.”
- Orlando has been pleased with Malcolm Roach’s switch to defensive end. He said, “We watch him in inside run, he’s a strong kid. He’s got some grit to him. Just polishing him. He’s still a young guy. Just continue on I’d like to see him get a little bit bigger, a little bit stronger. He’s had a nice couple of four days right now.”
- Chris Nelson is getting some work at defensive end, but on the opposite side of Roach.
- It will take at least 10 practices before coaches can accurately evaluate their players, according to Orlando. He also believes you can learn more about the team after their third scrimmage.
- Here is Orlando’s explanation for moving John Bonney from cornerback to safety: “I just think when you watch last year’s film, and some of the things he struggled with in terms of his skill set, I think it’s more natural for him. I really do. It gives him the opportunity to play at a high level … He’s kind of in between corner/safety. He was out there last year and gritted through it. From our standpoint, I think he’s more suited to be a safety, which is going to give us a little bit of range back there in terms of the throw game if we play some two-deep. He can end up being a decent blitzer for us, too, so that’s why we made the change.”
- In addition, Orlando said he likes Bonney at boundary safety because there is limited space for him to cover. The field-side safety has to cover slot receivers, plus a lot of area. Orlando believes the current position is more natural for Bonney’s ability.
- Orlando likes Jordan Elliott, but said the defensive tackles need to work himself into shape. In addition, Orlando said Elliott’s playing time will be determined by the physical shape he is in.
- Here is who Orlando likes at field safety: “I think (DeShon) Elliott, he’s doing a nice job. He’s been impressive to me. He really has. That kid gives us everything he has. I’m happy for him. I’m happy for us. Coach (Naivar) has done a really good job with that crew back there. Coach (Jason) Washington working with the corners. We’ve got some talent. There’s no doubt back there we’ve got some talent. There’s a lot of stuff going on out there. Those guys run the show. They make the communication calls, get lined up. I’ve been impressed with what they’ve done. P.J. (Locke) is another guy. They’ve been great people. Great kids. They’ve completely bought in. They’re trying their hearts out. They take coaching. I like being around them, too. They’re fun kids.” (Richardson)
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Texas offensive guard Patrick Vahe was in the doghouse last season, but appears to be taking advantage of a fresh start with a new staff.
Vahe lost his starting job after a loss against Kansas State last season. After a clash with coaches, Vahe was benched and regained his started position for thelast two games of the season. However, Vahe is back on the first team with the new staff.
When asked about what happened after Thursday’s practice, Vahe took the blame.
“That one was just a personal problem,” Vahe said. “My mind had been on the wrong path. My effort really wasn’t there. Really wasn’t what was needed for that team. As of right now, I’m on a different route.” (Richardson)
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As most Longhorn observers know, Herman is meticulous about every aspect of his football team. Herman challenges his players to be perfect in practice. He has been hands on during the renovation of his football facility. The coach wants his staff active on Twitter. You name one area of the football team – on and off the field – and Herman is making sure it is done the right way.
Herman is also very adamant about player safety.
From what I was told, Herman has drilled the importance of player safety into his players. He is unrelenting. Herman’s desires are non-negotiable. Player safety is a must to Herman.
Sure, Herman emphasizes the importance of proper tackling. He makes sure guys do not lead with their head. If players do not use proper techniques, they are forced to repeat the drill until it is executed the right way. That is Herman’s method of operation.
However, Herman has stressed the little things in practice.
Every player must wear a chinstrap on the field at all times. Nobody is snapping on the chinstrap after they step on the field. Herman makes sure it is on in advance, and his players are ready to go. In addition, Herman is big on replacing chinstraps once they get a little wear and tear on them. If the chinstrap strap begins to look beat up, players have to replace them.
Another mandate from Herman is mouthpieces have to be worn at all times on the practice field. There are no exceptions to his rule.
Wearing a chinstrap and mouthpiece appears to be basic stuff, but I spoke to a person who told me these were not requirements under the previous regime. Most players were surprised Herman emphasized safety so much. Once they got over the initial shock, I was told several players questioned why this was not a mandate previously.
Lastly, Herman requires all of his quarterbacks to wear a knee brace during practice. As most of you know, Herman learned that safety measure from his time at Ohio State. Herman previously said he wants players to wear knee braces in order to feel comfortable completing passes in the pocket without worrying about a teammate rolling on their leg.
These might be small preventative measures, but Herman is determined to prevent big injuries in the future. (Richardson)
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The Longhorns will host a pretty good batch of recruits for Saturday's practice, and then another large group for the spring game on April 15.
A list of the players who have told OB they'll be in town for either (or in some cases, both) practices ...
3-25
Roschon Johnson - QB - Port Neches-Groves (2019)
B.J. Foster - DB - Angleton
Jalen Green - DB - Houston Heights
Byron Hobbs - LB - Fort Worth Eastern Hills
Reese Moore - OL - Seminoe
Jacob Doddgridge - DE/LB - Southlake Carroll
Moro Ojomo - DE - Katy (said he'll probably go this weekend although he may go on the 15th instead)
Josh Thompson - DB - Nacogdoches (2017 signee)
Marqez Bimage - LB - Brenham (2017 signee)
Taquon Graham - DE - Temple
4-15
Casey Thompson - QB - Moore (OK) Southmore
Al'Vonte Woodard - WR - Houston Lamar
Anthony Cook - DB - Houston Lamar
Ta'Zhawn Henry - RB - Houston Lamar
D'Shawn Jamison - DB - Houston Lamar
Jaqualyn Crawford - ATH - Rockdale (maybe)
Kardell Thomas - OL - Baton Rouge Southern Lab (2019)
Jordan Moore - DB - Yoakum
Mustapha Muhammad - TE - Missouri City Ridge Point (maybe)
Malcolm Epps - TE - Spring Dekaney (maybe)
Cade Brewer - TE - Lake Travis (2017 signee)
Max Cummins - DE - FW All Saints Episcopal (2017 signee)
Taquon Graham - DE - Temple (2017 signee)
Montrell Estell - DB - Hooks (2017 signee)
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Texas extended an offer to top 2019 running back Noah Cain this week, and Cain tells OB he'll be on UT campus in the coming days. The IMG Academy prospect (was at Denton Guyer before transferring in January) said he's trying to make it on Saturday but will go to Tuesday's practice with his mother if he can't make it in this weekend.
Cain said he is very interested in the UT offer.
"I'm excited to see where coach Herman takes the program, plus I'm ready to develop a relationship with coach (Tim) Beck and coach (Stan) Drayton because they developed Ezekiel Elliott at Ohio State," Cain said.
With the 5-11, 200-pound Cain having ties to the state of Texas, one would think it would help UT's chances, but Cain said he's open to going anywhere in the country.
"Being close to home or being far from home doesn't matter for me. I'm going to a school to play as a true freshman and to make my family proud," Cain said. (Suchomel)
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A second RB offer went out this week, with the UT staff extending a scholarship to 2018 prospect Lyn-J Dixon.
Dixon, out of Butler (GA) Taylor County, told OB he's excited about the UT offer and he plans to visit Texas either sometime in April or in the summer.
"Getting an offer from Texas means a lot," Dixon said. "Seeing all the good coaches that are coaching there it's really a blessing to get an offer from them."
The 5-11, 177-pound Dixon said there's a lot to like about Texas, including RB coach Stan Drayton.
"I know that Texas has coach Drayton and he has coached a lot of good backs like Arian Foster, Ezekiel Elliott, etcetera," Dixon said. "And I know Texas had had some history with some good backs. I have to go on a visit to learn more about Texas to see what I like about them."
Dixon said he doesn't have a list of favorites and he's keeping an open mind as new programs enter the picture, but he's interested in Tennessee, Oklahoma, LSU, Oklahoma State, Florida, Texas, Ole Miss, Florida, Michigan, Louisville, South Carolina, Notre Dame, Clemson and Georgia. (Suchomel)
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Houston Lamar DB D'Shawn Jamison isn’t ready to reveal his full list of five favorites, but he told us this week that he has Texas and TCU as his top two. He’s planning to visit both schools for their spring games.
Jamison detailed what will separate one school from the others …
“More academics, consistency and who shows the most love, who really wants me,” Jamison said. “That’s what I’m planning on seeing.”
Texas is recruiting Jamison as a corner and a nickel back. TCU has talked strictly corner.
Jamison’s last visit to UT was for an unofficial visit the day before the Longhorns’ junior day, and he said it was a good trip overall.
“The best thing I experienced over there was in the film room talking to coach (Washington). He was showing me how I benefit their defense and what the schemes they’re going to do with me if I come there, and who is going to teach me all the cornerback stuff, and what coach Herman is planning on doing with the facilities,” Jamison said.
As part of an extremely talented Houston Lamar class, Jamison said he and his classmates have talked about going to the same school, but said it’s not set in stone that they’ll play together in college. (Suchomel)
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Rivals250 defensive back Jalen Green will be in Austin on Saturday and said he’s interested to see what the coaches have carried over from their time at Houston. Green said he talks to Jason Washington frequently and the two had a good relationship before Washington made the move from UH to Texas.
“The coaches that they brought from U of H, I want to see them there at Texas,” Green said. “He (Washington) checks up on me every day to see how I’m doing. And my parents. I like that he’s a really good man, he stays true to his word.”
Green will release his top schools in June, but said the Longhorns are one of the top schools he’ll consider.
“I like their culture, the way they treat people around there. It’s a good environment,” he said.
Green said he may return to UT for the Orange-White game and may hit LSU and A&M as well.
The 6-2, 165-pound Houston Heights product said location doesn’t matter to him, but admitted that his family wants him to stay closer to home. (Suchomel)
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A couple comments of interest from Spring Dekaney tight end Malcolm Epps, who showed up to last weekend’s Under Armour camp wearing a UT bracelet and flashed the Hook’Em hand sign when he saw me taking his picture.
“I liked it. It was like being at home, three hours away,” Epps said of his recent UT visit. “I liked it. They talked about how they were going to change some things up. Coach Herman is a winning coach and I’d like to play for a winning coach.”
One was his immediate impression of the new staff?
“They’re determined to win,” to win, Epps said, emphasizing the second word.
Epps said he’ll start narrowing his list down this summer. If he had a top five right now, he said Texas, Alabama, UCLA and Rice would for sure make the cut.
Epps may return to Austin for the Orange-White game next month.
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DB Starrland Baldwin didn’t pick up an offer from Texas during his junior day visit, but he said it was still a great visit and he’s not giving up on the Longhorns yet.
“It was amazing,” Baldwin said of the visit. “They’re starting something new. It’s a new wave. Being from Orange, Texas, a legend went to UT – Earl Thomas. I looked up to him and that was one of my favorite players growing up. Visiting Texas was definitely a dream school growing up, so it was amazing.”
Baldwin wants to take a return visit to Texas with his mother, and he’s hoping an offer could come in the future.
“We talked a little bit, how they offer their cornerbacks, the recruiting process, how long they have. Texas didn’t offer yet. They’re interested in me a lot but I haven’t gotten that offer yet,” Baldwin said. (Suchomel)
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A name to file away for the future … 2020 DB Lejond Cavazos. The Cibolo Steele standout has picked up recent offers from Auburn, Ole Miss, OU, Tennessee and LSU.
Texas and Texas A&M have been in touch. He’ll visit A&M’s spring game and said he’ll be in Austin for a visit at some point. Texas also has an in with head coach Tom Herman.
“I’m going to go to one of their practices soon. My dad is actually good friends with coach Herman,” Cavazos said. “He knew him back in the old days, as they say. I love UT. I grew up going to UT games. My best friend goes there. She runs track there.” (Suchomel)
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Ridge Point tight end Mustapha Muhammad told OB he hears from UT tight ends coach Corby Meekins every single day and communicates with Tom Herman a few times a week.
Muhammad spent the entire junior day weekend in Austin. He said it was a good visit and Texas has moved up his list.
“I got there Friday night. I stayed Saturday night and left on Sunday. I was with my mother and my little brother. I had a great time out there,” Muhammad said. “I’ve built relationships with coach Meekins and coach Herman. I got to sit down and talk to those guys one-on-one, on campus. It was an awesome visit.
“I’ve gained more interest in Texas now that they have a new coaching staff.”
Muhammad said he doesn’t have a preference on staying in state or leaving the state, and is simply looking for the best fit. Included in his evaluations will be how tight ends are used in the offense, which means he’ll be watching Texas closely this spring and in the fall.
“They told me back in their Ohio State days they used the tight end a lot and put a few in the league,” Muhammad said. “They said they plan on using me the same way in their offense.
“I'm definitely curious to see what they're going to do on the field. (Herman) is at a new school, I want to see how he's going to use the tight end position in their offense.”
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Houston Lamar wide receiver Al'Vonte Woodard is one of the country’s top prospects, and he backed up that lofty ranking last weekend with an impressive showing at the Under Armour camp in Houston.
So far this spring, Woodard has visited Texas and Texas A&M. He’s planning to visit Ole Miss, Ohio State and Clemson, and also plans to return to Austin for UT’s spring game. Texas (Drew Mehringer) and Ohio State are recruiting him the hardest.
The Longhorns are obviously hoping to land Woodard and at least a couple of his teammates in Anthony Cook and D’Shawn Jamison, but the reach could extend further than that. Woodard said a large number of Houston-area prospects stay in close contact, and it’s possible they could play together at the next level.
“Our relationship is like we’re brothers. We have a whole group text we talk in every day about anything,” Woodard said. “Maybe somehow we all end up at the same school.”
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The college hoops coaching carousel took an unexpected turn today when Georgetown fired John Thompson III, ending the Thompson era at Georgetown, which was started by his father, John Thompson, Jr. Besides a brief 1999-2004 period, Georgetown has been coached by a Thompson since 1972.
While the move was a surprise - considering Thompson Jr.’s stature, and constant presence at the University and within the hoops program - Texas head coach Shaka Smart’s name being linked to the opening isn’t. SI’s Pete Thamel, ESPN’s Jeff Goodman and Jeff Borzello, and others have already speculated that Georgetown should take a swing at Smart, who has deep ties in that area after a highly successful tenure at VCU. With the coaching carousel spinning at full speed, Smart’s name was immediately rumored to be associated with the opening.
From what I heard today, Smart isn’t interested in leaving Texas for Georgetown. He’ll be a trendy name to mention because of his background, but the early word is Smart would stay put at Texas if Georgetown reached out. It wouldn’t surprise me if Georgetown inquiries about Smart. He and the Georgetown AD are familiar with each other, and despite last year’s awful season, Smart remains widely respected in the hoops community. But most people believe the Hoyas will end up looking toward someone like former player and current NBA assistant Patrick Ewing, Rhode Island head coach Dan Hurley, or current Harvard head coach Tommy Amaker. (McComas)
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After freshman Jarrett Allen made it known he was putting his name in the draft to test the waters, I checked around on his teammate, and fellow McDonald's All-American and classmate, Andrew Jones.
Could Jones go the same route, and elect to put his name in the draft without hiring an agent?
"He might," said a source, who then added, "but he'll be in burnt orange next season."
Another person echoed the same sentiment: it's something Jones is considering, but he'll be back in Austin next season.
Of course, the idea of a guy putting his name in the draft is enough to make Texas fans uneasy. But all indications are still that Jones will be at Texas next year if he does decide to put his name in the draft. (McComas)
- As everyone has undoubtedly heard, the Undertaker (ex professional wrestler) was on hand to address the team to start practice. The media was not allowed close enough to hear what was said, but rest assured the Texas Athletics Department will likely get footage of the speech up sooner than later.
- Like Tuesday, it was a full-pads practice.
- Practice started out with the "circle drill" again, which is what the new coaches call what the old coaches called "Bull in the ring." The Circle drill, bull in the ring, Oklahoma drill - whatever you call it - is usually something done mainly in camp and never in-season as it's a tone-setting competition drill as opposed to a game-plan one. I've noticed during the first two practices that when the circle drill period starts that the DJ plays "Bodies" by Drowning Pool. It's pretty lit.
- Kent Perkins was in attendance at practice as was D'Onta Foreman. As for recruits, I was able to identify one OL recruit on hand as 2018 OL Jeffrey Rose from Cy Ranch in Houston. Big kid with a nice frame and big paws. Based on his HUDL, he's the kind of prospect who comes in looking more like an oversized TE but that's what Connor Williams was, too ... HERE IS A LINK TO HIS HUDL
http://www.hudl.com/profile/5264569/jeffrey-rose
- On a sidenote about D'Onta Foreman, I asked some people around practice who've been around his pro day workouts how he's looking. He's been in Austin for the last week or so working out here and getting ready for pro day. The fifth metatarsal Jones fracture discovered at the combine that unexpectedly kept him out of action has proven to be absolutely no big deal per the source. The person said he's going to blow everyone away with his 40 time next week. I asked what he was running and the person wouldn't answer, but he said that it would be "faster than (Leonard) Fournette." Fournette, as most know, ran a 4.51 in Indy. Of course, we need to remember that pro day 40 hand-times run faster than combine electronic-times but the word around the Foreman camp seems to be a confident one about a sub-4.5 40 which may be surprising to some .... but not me.
- RT Brandon Hodges was not at practice on Tuesday, but media relations didn't seem to think it was any kind of injury, we'll keep an eye on it.
- As a result, Tristan Nickelson worked a good bit with the first group at RT; more importantly to many on the board, it also meant some first-team RT reps in position drills for Denzel Okafor for the first time.
- Speaking of injuries, Jason Hall looks to be coming along well. The brace he's worn for the first three practices is off and he's out there in pads. Once practice starts, he goes to rehab training, but the rehab he is doing is intense enough to think that maybe the issue is coming along well. He was basically tossing around a one-man sled dummy today so his hamstring is not in terrible shape.
- Joining Hall in the pit was Kirk Johnson, who, unfortunately, is still less than 100 percent at least. It might be good for him to just shut things down until fall camp and start out of the gate with refreshed legs.
- Speaking of RBs, Chris Warren showed some nice hands out of the backfield during some receiving drills, but the player who caught my eye as a snatcher of the football out of the backfield was Toneil Carter. He's a hands-catcher who frames the ball well, sees it in and puts his body in great position to burst upfield for YAC on consistent basis.
- Catch of the day came from Collin Johnson on a beautiful over-the-shoulder fade from Josh Covey. Covey in his own right is a much better QB than Texas fans have had recently as an emergency option. I'd certainly rather a guy like Covey have to get me out of a game and on to next week if need be than Trey Holtz or maybe even Case McCoy. (Dunlap)
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Texas defensive coordinator Todd Orlando spoke to the media after Thursday’s practice and appeared cautiously optimistic about his unit a few weeks into spring practice.
Here are the highlights from Orlando’s media availability:
- When asked for his observations since the pads have come on, Orlando said, “It’s early. I know Tom (Herman) talked about this thing, too. We have to get more physical, and we’re working on it every day. We understand what we need to do. I think that’s been a big point of emphasis. Kids are working, trying to work through. It’s different for them. There’s a lot of contact. The one thing I’ve been impressed with is they’re trying to push through it, where a lot of times you get a new staff in and there might be some defiance, and some people are trying to analyze things. They’re not doing that at all. They’re trying. They’re giving us everything they got. They just got to get accustomed to the way that we train.”
- Orlando said the decision to move Breckyn Hager inside was based on the evaluation of last year’s film and winter conditioning: “Breckyn brings a certain kind of physicality in there, and I’d like for that middle linebacker position to be that. Malik (Jefferson) has some tools to do some unique things at that position.”
- The reason why Erick Fowler has played the inside linebacker position is because Orlando views him as a thumper. Orlando wants guys who can hit at that position, and Fowler is the guy who fits that description. Overall, Orlando described Fowler as a work in progress, but seems to like his physical play.
- Here is an interesting observation about Hager and Fowler from Orlando: “The contact part is what I’m looking for. That’s it. You have to have somebody in there who wants to run it in. At the end of the day, when I look at him (Hager), I look at Erick, and I look at those guys, I say to myself, ‘Out of our group, who are those people?’ We’re not going to go into the season with a soft middle linebacker. It’s just not going to happen. Whoever ends up being the toughest kid, the kid that is going to be the most physical play in and play out, he’s going to line up there and eventually play middle. That position should be the quarterback of the defense. He should be the toughest guy. Everybody should respect him. He should go extremely hard all the time and be vocal. That’s the prereq (prerequisite) you look for when you’re trying to fill that spot.”
- By the way, the quarterback of Orlando’s defense is a combination of the middle linebacker and field-side safety.
- Orlando has been rotating different players at starting cornerbacks because he is still evaluating the guys he has: “To me, it’s a way to keep those guys on their toes, and to make sure that technically and fundamentally they’re doing things the right way, and we’re decently deep there, so you’re able to do that part of it. You’re going to see some different people in there. It’s not going to be, 'Malik Jefferson is not playing well, Malik’s going to stay in there.’ No, Malik is going to be on the bench, and we’re going to put somebody in there specifically who for that day is going to play. It’s creating competition and stressing it every day (when) you go out on that field. Ourselves included as coaches. You’re being evaluated every day.”
- Orlando has been pleased with Malcolm Roach’s switch to defensive end. He said, “We watch him in inside run, he’s a strong kid. He’s got some grit to him. Just polishing him. He’s still a young guy. Just continue on I’d like to see him get a little bit bigger, a little bit stronger. He’s had a nice couple of four days right now.”
- Chris Nelson is getting some work at defensive end, but on the opposite side of Roach.
- It will take at least 10 practices before coaches can accurately evaluate their players, according to Orlando. He also believes you can learn more about the team after their third scrimmage.
- Here is Orlando’s explanation for moving John Bonney from cornerback to safety: “I just think when you watch last year’s film, and some of the things he struggled with in terms of his skill set, I think it’s more natural for him. I really do. It gives him the opportunity to play at a high level … He’s kind of in between corner/safety. He was out there last year and gritted through it. From our standpoint, I think he’s more suited to be a safety, which is going to give us a little bit of range back there in terms of the throw game if we play some two-deep. He can end up being a decent blitzer for us, too, so that’s why we made the change.”
- In addition, Orlando said he likes Bonney at boundary safety because there is limited space for him to cover. The field-side safety has to cover slot receivers, plus a lot of area. Orlando believes the current position is more natural for Bonney’s ability.
- Orlando likes Jordan Elliott, but said the defensive tackles need to work himself into shape. In addition, Orlando said Elliott’s playing time will be determined by the physical shape he is in.
- Here is who Orlando likes at field safety: “I think (DeShon) Elliott, he’s doing a nice job. He’s been impressive to me. He really has. That kid gives us everything he has. I’m happy for him. I’m happy for us. Coach (Naivar) has done a really good job with that crew back there. Coach (Jason) Washington working with the corners. We’ve got some talent. There’s no doubt back there we’ve got some talent. There’s a lot of stuff going on out there. Those guys run the show. They make the communication calls, get lined up. I’ve been impressed with what they’ve done. P.J. (Locke) is another guy. They’ve been great people. Great kids. They’ve completely bought in. They’re trying their hearts out. They take coaching. I like being around them, too. They’re fun kids.” (Richardson)
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Texas offensive guard Patrick Vahe was in the doghouse last season, but appears to be taking advantage of a fresh start with a new staff.
Vahe lost his starting job after a loss against Kansas State last season. After a clash with coaches, Vahe was benched and regained his started position for thelast two games of the season. However, Vahe is back on the first team with the new staff.
When asked about what happened after Thursday’s practice, Vahe took the blame.
“That one was just a personal problem,” Vahe said. “My mind had been on the wrong path. My effort really wasn’t there. Really wasn’t what was needed for that team. As of right now, I’m on a different route.” (Richardson)
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As most Longhorn observers know, Herman is meticulous about every aspect of his football team. Herman challenges his players to be perfect in practice. He has been hands on during the renovation of his football facility. The coach wants his staff active on Twitter. You name one area of the football team – on and off the field – and Herman is making sure it is done the right way.
Herman is also very adamant about player safety.
From what I was told, Herman has drilled the importance of player safety into his players. He is unrelenting. Herman’s desires are non-negotiable. Player safety is a must to Herman.
Sure, Herman emphasizes the importance of proper tackling. He makes sure guys do not lead with their head. If players do not use proper techniques, they are forced to repeat the drill until it is executed the right way. That is Herman’s method of operation.
However, Herman has stressed the little things in practice.
Every player must wear a chinstrap on the field at all times. Nobody is snapping on the chinstrap after they step on the field. Herman makes sure it is on in advance, and his players are ready to go. In addition, Herman is big on replacing chinstraps once they get a little wear and tear on them. If the chinstrap strap begins to look beat up, players have to replace them.
Another mandate from Herman is mouthpieces have to be worn at all times on the practice field. There are no exceptions to his rule.
Wearing a chinstrap and mouthpiece appears to be basic stuff, but I spoke to a person who told me these were not requirements under the previous regime. Most players were surprised Herman emphasized safety so much. Once they got over the initial shock, I was told several players questioned why this was not a mandate previously.
Lastly, Herman requires all of his quarterbacks to wear a knee brace during practice. As most of you know, Herman learned that safety measure from his time at Ohio State. Herman previously said he wants players to wear knee braces in order to feel comfortable completing passes in the pocket without worrying about a teammate rolling on their leg.
These might be small preventative measures, but Herman is determined to prevent big injuries in the future. (Richardson)
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The Longhorns will host a pretty good batch of recruits for Saturday's practice, and then another large group for the spring game on April 15.
A list of the players who have told OB they'll be in town for either (or in some cases, both) practices ...
3-25
Roschon Johnson - QB - Port Neches-Groves (2019)
B.J. Foster - DB - Angleton
Jalen Green - DB - Houston Heights
Byron Hobbs - LB - Fort Worth Eastern Hills
Reese Moore - OL - Seminoe
Jacob Doddgridge - DE/LB - Southlake Carroll
Moro Ojomo - DE - Katy (said he'll probably go this weekend although he may go on the 15th instead)
Josh Thompson - DB - Nacogdoches (2017 signee)
Marqez Bimage - LB - Brenham (2017 signee)
Taquon Graham - DE - Temple
4-15
Casey Thompson - QB - Moore (OK) Southmore
Al'Vonte Woodard - WR - Houston Lamar
Anthony Cook - DB - Houston Lamar
Ta'Zhawn Henry - RB - Houston Lamar
D'Shawn Jamison - DB - Houston Lamar
Jaqualyn Crawford - ATH - Rockdale (maybe)
Kardell Thomas - OL - Baton Rouge Southern Lab (2019)
Jordan Moore - DB - Yoakum
Mustapha Muhammad - TE - Missouri City Ridge Point (maybe)
Malcolm Epps - TE - Spring Dekaney (maybe)
Cade Brewer - TE - Lake Travis (2017 signee)
Max Cummins - DE - FW All Saints Episcopal (2017 signee)
Taquon Graham - DE - Temple (2017 signee)
Montrell Estell - DB - Hooks (2017 signee)
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Texas extended an offer to top 2019 running back Noah Cain this week, and Cain tells OB he'll be on UT campus in the coming days. The IMG Academy prospect (was at Denton Guyer before transferring in January) said he's trying to make it on Saturday but will go to Tuesday's practice with his mother if he can't make it in this weekend.
Cain said he is very interested in the UT offer.
"I'm excited to see where coach Herman takes the program, plus I'm ready to develop a relationship with coach (Tim) Beck and coach (Stan) Drayton because they developed Ezekiel Elliott at Ohio State," Cain said.
With the 5-11, 200-pound Cain having ties to the state of Texas, one would think it would help UT's chances, but Cain said he's open to going anywhere in the country.
"Being close to home or being far from home doesn't matter for me. I'm going to a school to play as a true freshman and to make my family proud," Cain said. (Suchomel)
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A second RB offer went out this week, with the UT staff extending a scholarship to 2018 prospect Lyn-J Dixon.
Dixon, out of Butler (GA) Taylor County, told OB he's excited about the UT offer and he plans to visit Texas either sometime in April or in the summer.
"Getting an offer from Texas means a lot," Dixon said. "Seeing all the good coaches that are coaching there it's really a blessing to get an offer from them."
The 5-11, 177-pound Dixon said there's a lot to like about Texas, including RB coach Stan Drayton.
"I know that Texas has coach Drayton and he has coached a lot of good backs like Arian Foster, Ezekiel Elliott, etcetera," Dixon said. "And I know Texas had had some history with some good backs. I have to go on a visit to learn more about Texas to see what I like about them."
Dixon said he doesn't have a list of favorites and he's keeping an open mind as new programs enter the picture, but he's interested in Tennessee, Oklahoma, LSU, Oklahoma State, Florida, Texas, Ole Miss, Florida, Michigan, Louisville, South Carolina, Notre Dame, Clemson and Georgia. (Suchomel)
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Houston Lamar DB D'Shawn Jamison isn’t ready to reveal his full list of five favorites, but he told us this week that he has Texas and TCU as his top two. He’s planning to visit both schools for their spring games.
Jamison detailed what will separate one school from the others …
“More academics, consistency and who shows the most love, who really wants me,” Jamison said. “That’s what I’m planning on seeing.”
Texas is recruiting Jamison as a corner and a nickel back. TCU has talked strictly corner.
Jamison’s last visit to UT was for an unofficial visit the day before the Longhorns’ junior day, and he said it was a good trip overall.
“The best thing I experienced over there was in the film room talking to coach (Washington). He was showing me how I benefit their defense and what the schemes they’re going to do with me if I come there, and who is going to teach me all the cornerback stuff, and what coach Herman is planning on doing with the facilities,” Jamison said.
As part of an extremely talented Houston Lamar class, Jamison said he and his classmates have talked about going to the same school, but said it’s not set in stone that they’ll play together in college. (Suchomel)
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Rivals250 defensive back Jalen Green will be in Austin on Saturday and said he’s interested to see what the coaches have carried over from their time at Houston. Green said he talks to Jason Washington frequently and the two had a good relationship before Washington made the move from UH to Texas.
“The coaches that they brought from U of H, I want to see them there at Texas,” Green said. “He (Washington) checks up on me every day to see how I’m doing. And my parents. I like that he’s a really good man, he stays true to his word.”
Green will release his top schools in June, but said the Longhorns are one of the top schools he’ll consider.
“I like their culture, the way they treat people around there. It’s a good environment,” he said.
Green said he may return to UT for the Orange-White game and may hit LSU and A&M as well.
The 6-2, 165-pound Houston Heights product said location doesn’t matter to him, but admitted that his family wants him to stay closer to home. (Suchomel)
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A couple comments of interest from Spring Dekaney tight end Malcolm Epps, who showed up to last weekend’s Under Armour camp wearing a UT bracelet and flashed the Hook’Em hand sign when he saw me taking his picture.
“I liked it. It was like being at home, three hours away,” Epps said of his recent UT visit. “I liked it. They talked about how they were going to change some things up. Coach Herman is a winning coach and I’d like to play for a winning coach.”
One was his immediate impression of the new staff?
“They’re determined to win,” to win, Epps said, emphasizing the second word.
Epps said he’ll start narrowing his list down this summer. If he had a top five right now, he said Texas, Alabama, UCLA and Rice would for sure make the cut.
Epps may return to Austin for the Orange-White game next month.
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DB Starrland Baldwin didn’t pick up an offer from Texas during his junior day visit, but he said it was still a great visit and he’s not giving up on the Longhorns yet.
“It was amazing,” Baldwin said of the visit. “They’re starting something new. It’s a new wave. Being from Orange, Texas, a legend went to UT – Earl Thomas. I looked up to him and that was one of my favorite players growing up. Visiting Texas was definitely a dream school growing up, so it was amazing.”
Baldwin wants to take a return visit to Texas with his mother, and he’s hoping an offer could come in the future.
“We talked a little bit, how they offer their cornerbacks, the recruiting process, how long they have. Texas didn’t offer yet. They’re interested in me a lot but I haven’t gotten that offer yet,” Baldwin said. (Suchomel)
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A name to file away for the future … 2020 DB Lejond Cavazos. The Cibolo Steele standout has picked up recent offers from Auburn, Ole Miss, OU, Tennessee and LSU.
Texas and Texas A&M have been in touch. He’ll visit A&M’s spring game and said he’ll be in Austin for a visit at some point. Texas also has an in with head coach Tom Herman.
“I’m going to go to one of their practices soon. My dad is actually good friends with coach Herman,” Cavazos said. “He knew him back in the old days, as they say. I love UT. I grew up going to UT games. My best friend goes there. She runs track there.” (Suchomel)
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Ridge Point tight end Mustapha Muhammad told OB he hears from UT tight ends coach Corby Meekins every single day and communicates with Tom Herman a few times a week.
Muhammad spent the entire junior day weekend in Austin. He said it was a good visit and Texas has moved up his list.
“I got there Friday night. I stayed Saturday night and left on Sunday. I was with my mother and my little brother. I had a great time out there,” Muhammad said. “I’ve built relationships with coach Meekins and coach Herman. I got to sit down and talk to those guys one-on-one, on campus. It was an awesome visit.
“I’ve gained more interest in Texas now that they have a new coaching staff.”
Muhammad said he doesn’t have a preference on staying in state or leaving the state, and is simply looking for the best fit. Included in his evaluations will be how tight ends are used in the offense, which means he’ll be watching Texas closely this spring and in the fall.
“They told me back in their Ohio State days they used the tight end a lot and put a few in the league,” Muhammad said. “They said they plan on using me the same way in their offense.
“I'm definitely curious to see what they're going to do on the field. (Herman) is at a new school, I want to see how he's going to use the tight end position in their offense.”
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Houston Lamar wide receiver Al'Vonte Woodard is one of the country’s top prospects, and he backed up that lofty ranking last weekend with an impressive showing at the Under Armour camp in Houston.
So far this spring, Woodard has visited Texas and Texas A&M. He’s planning to visit Ole Miss, Ohio State and Clemson, and also plans to return to Austin for UT’s spring game. Texas (Drew Mehringer) and Ohio State are recruiting him the hardest.
The Longhorns are obviously hoping to land Woodard and at least a couple of his teammates in Anthony Cook and D’Shawn Jamison, but the reach could extend further than that. Woodard said a large number of Houston-area prospects stay in close contact, and it’s possible they could play together at the next level.
“Our relationship is like we’re brothers. We have a whole group text we talk in every day about anything,” Woodard said. “Maybe somehow we all end up at the same school.”
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The college hoops coaching carousel took an unexpected turn today when Georgetown fired John Thompson III, ending the Thompson era at Georgetown, which was started by his father, John Thompson, Jr. Besides a brief 1999-2004 period, Georgetown has been coached by a Thompson since 1972.
While the move was a surprise - considering Thompson Jr.’s stature, and constant presence at the University and within the hoops program - Texas head coach Shaka Smart’s name being linked to the opening isn’t. SI’s Pete Thamel, ESPN’s Jeff Goodman and Jeff Borzello, and others have already speculated that Georgetown should take a swing at Smart, who has deep ties in that area after a highly successful tenure at VCU. With the coaching carousel spinning at full speed, Smart’s name was immediately rumored to be associated with the opening.
From what I heard today, Smart isn’t interested in leaving Texas for Georgetown. He’ll be a trendy name to mention because of his background, but the early word is Smart would stay put at Texas if Georgetown reached out. It wouldn’t surprise me if Georgetown inquiries about Smart. He and the Georgetown AD are familiar with each other, and despite last year’s awful season, Smart remains widely respected in the hoops community. But most people believe the Hoyas will end up looking toward someone like former player and current NBA assistant Patrick Ewing, Rhode Island head coach Dan Hurley, or current Harvard head coach Tommy Amaker. (McComas)
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After freshman Jarrett Allen made it known he was putting his name in the draft to test the waters, I checked around on his teammate, and fellow McDonald's All-American and classmate, Andrew Jones.
Could Jones go the same route, and elect to put his name in the draft without hiring an agent?
"He might," said a source, who then added, "but he'll be in burnt orange next season."
Another person echoed the same sentiment: it's something Jones is considering, but he'll be back in Austin next season.
Of course, the idea of a guy putting his name in the draft is enough to make Texas fans uneasy. But all indications are still that Jones will be at Texas next year if he does decide to put his name in the draft. (McComas)
